Driver Licences

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 October 2022

Wednesday, 12 October 2022

Ceisteanna (33)

Paul Murphy

Ceist:

33. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the only form of identity being accepted at NDLS centres when applying for the first time or renewing one's driving licence or learner permit is a public services card; if there is an alternative offered for those who do not have a public services card and are unable to obtain one due to work commitments and the waiting time in their local INTREO office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50484/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

A public services card (PSC) is only compulsory when applying for or renewing a learner permit or driving licence online. The PSC is used to confirm a person’s identity and image in place of a face-to-face verification. The Road Safety Authority is recognised as a specified body for the use of a PSC under the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 (as amended by the Social Welfare and Pensions (No. 2) Act 2009).

When applying for a driving licence, a person can verify their identity in person at a National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) front office with a passport, a recent Irish driving licence or UK photo driving licence, a national identity card for EU citizens, or an Irish certificate of naturalisation, in place of using a PSC. All NDLS offices are open to the public, but an appointment must be made to attend. It is no longer possible to walk into an office without an appointment. Appointments can be made online or by telephone at 0818 919 090. A PSC is not needed to book an appointment.